J. Balvin and Valentina Ferrer split

The 41-year-old musician met the Miss Universe contestant on a music video shoot back in 2017 and they welcomed son Rio into the world in June 2021, but the 32-year-old beauty has now revealed they have decided to go their separate ways, but are determined to put the best interests of their little boy first.

Valentina wrote on her Instagram Story: “[Our split] has been a decision made from love, respect and the desire to do what is best for our family.

“Our priority will continue to be always accompanying Río with all our love.”

The model went on to appeal for privacy while she and the Mi Gente hitmaker navigate the new stage in their relationship.

She added: “We are going through this process calmly and deeply appreciate the understanding and respect toward this very personal moment for us."

Fans had been questioning the couple's relationship status after they didn't share any joint social media content for several weeks, and according to Hola, Valentina recently responded by liking posts that suggested she was dropping a major hint when she posted Karol G's break-up song Alguien Que Te Amaba.

Just a week ago, the beauty queen had insisted there wasn't a key to why she and Balvin had stayed together for so long.

Speaking on Brazil's G Show, she said: “There isn’t [one key]. Each couple develops a different kind of complicity and way of approaching the relationship.

“It’s more about respecting each other, knowing how to communicate, and a lot of companionship.”

She also noted how they both orchestrate their careers around their sons needs.

She said: “Río is five years old and already has his own routine with school, activities, and playtime. We’re always adjusting our daily lives so we can enjoy time with Río.

“He doesn’t yet understand the scope of our careers, but that will come with time.”

The I Like It hitmaker previously told how becoming a father had ultimately brought him "peace" in life and he was able to "enjoy" things in a way he hadn't been able to before.

He told People magazine in 2024: "I became a father three years ago. That's one of the things that really marks this new album. I think that's really powerful. It also reminds me that I'm at peace. I know what I want more than ever.